Michael Atencio

A patriarch, husband, father, grandfather and friend was suddenly taken away leaving a significant loss for those he loved and that loved him on December 5, 2021.

Michael Eugene Atencio, born in Fruita, Colorado on July 13, 1956 to Orlando and Dorothy Atencio (Vigil), was the oldest of four boys and a pillar of the Atencio family. From a young age, Michael was determined and strong. He believed in faith, family and hard work as he navigated life.

Michael was married to Ruby (Gauthreaux) in November of 1976, after a quick courtship. In September of 1978, they welcomed daughter, Heather. As a devoted husband and father, he worked hard to take care of his family. Mike started a career in oil and gas in the late 70's. He spent 40 years building relationships within the industry that he leveraged to learn and grow as a well known professional and leader. Michael was very well known to many and cherished by all. His loyalty to making a difference was undeniable.

In 2003, Michael moved to Calgary, Alberta, Canada. During his time there, he married Pamela. Mike and Pamela shared a life full of laughter, travel, and entertaining family and friends. In 2017, Mike obtained his Canadian citizenship, which he took great pride in.

In 2004, 2007, and 2009, Michael welcomed grandchildren Ashlyn, Kellyn and Braylon into his family. Grandpa Mike loved his grandchildren and spent many summers building memories of exploring, site seeing, bike riding, fishing, camping, and belly laughs that will last their lifetime.

Recently, Mike was enjoying the slower pace of retirement, which allowed him to spend more time doing things he loved like hunting, fishing, golfing, and spending time with his family, neighbors and supporting his community.

Mike was larger than life and his legacy and memory will be cherished and kept alive by his wife Pamela; daughters, Lacey (Adam), Heather (Lucas); grandchildren, Ashlyn, Kellyn, and Braylon. He is also survived by his mother Dorothy Martinez; brothers, Ted (Vicki) and Anthony (Lori); mother-in-law Jean, and brother-in-law Brad; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Orlando Atencio, stepfather Willy Martinez, his brother Leonel (Annie) and his son-in-law Domenic.

Rosary and Mass will be held on 2/19/22 beginning at 10 am at St Ignatius Catholic Church in Ignacio, Colorado. Mike's Celebration of Life will be held on 2/19/22 beginning at 3 pm at River Bend Ranch in Durango, Colorado.